Glenn Frey once referred to a particular musician as the Eagles’ “muse,” highlighting the significant role this individual played in shaping the band's identity and sound.
Since their inception in the early 1970s, the Eagles have been vocal about how various artists have influenced their music. They played an essential part in sustaining and evolving the rock sound that originated in the 1960s, ensuring it continued to resonate long after the hippie movement faded. Among the many influences, one artist stands out in particular for the band, whom they affectionately call their “muse.”
The concept of a “muse” can often feel mythical in the context of rock music, suggesting an almost mystical spark of inspiration rather than the grounded reality of how musical careers are truly built. In reality, influence frequently arises from close relationships. It’s about being in the orbit of someone whose standards you learn to appreciate and whose instincts help reshape your understanding of what is achievable.
For the Eagles, this influence extended far beyond mere musical notes; it encompassed professionalism, refined taste, and the ability to craft songs that feel effortless, even when meticulously arranged. Linda Ronstadt, the artist in question, was already demonstrating a level of artistry that suggested she understood the entire music-making process. This kind of professionalism inevitably leaves a mark on anyone who collaborates with her.
More than just a muse, Ronstadt's contributions can be credited as foundational to the Eagles' very existence. Unlike many bands from the 1960s and '70s that emerged from a narrative of friends forming a band through shared experiences, the Eagles’ origin story resembles a carefully crafted puzzle. The pieces were assembled until they finally aligned, and at the heart of this assembly was Linda Ronstadt.
In 1971, Ronstadt sought new musicians to join her ensemble, having already secured her place as a leading figure in the musical landscape of the 1960s. During auditions, she and her manager, John Boylan, discovered Glenn Frey and Don Henley, both hailing from different parts of the United States. Their meeting felt like a stroke of fate and became the catalyst for the formation of one of the most cherished rock bands in history.
It was during their time on tour with Ronstadt that Frey and Henley decided to form a band of their own. In a strategic move, Ronstadt recommended Bernie Leadon to them and also facilitated the inclusion of Randy Meisner by inviting him to join her band for a trial period. This arrangement allowed them to explore their musical synergy, effectively transforming her backing band into a creative incubator that foreshadowed the emergence of the Eagles.
When they eventually struck the right chord and released their self-titled debut album in 1972, they never overlooked Ronstadt’s invaluable role—not only as a logistical supporter who helped unite them but also as a vibrant source of artistic inspiration. Frey openly acknowledged, "Linda was our muse and a brave artist who followed her instincts," in an interview with Express.
He specifically cited her 1983 album "What’s New" as a benchmark for his own work, expressing admiration for its quality. He described this record, produced in collaboration with Nelson Riddle, as his gold standard, surpassing even her celebrated albums from the 1970s that featured him as part of her band. According to Frey, "This album, the first of three with Nelson Riddle, is my benchmark."
He praised Ronstadt's work, noting its exceptional songwriting, catchy melodies, and beautiful vocals. Yet Frey’s respect for her extended beyond her musical prowess; he admired her commitment to educating audiences about music. He remarked, "She has always felt a responsibility to educate as well as entertain. She’s always putting in a Chuck Berry song for people that might not have heard of that, or ‘Blue Bayou’ by Roy Orbison... I really admire her bravery and credibility." He labeled her as "the first lady of country rock" and regarded her as the ultimate muse of the band.
